Jack Kerouac

Jack Kerouac

March 12, 1922 – October 21, 1969

Jack Kerouac, born in Lowell, Massachusetts, is one of the most important American authors of the 20th century. Kerouac is best known for his classic On the Road, a novel that captured the spirit of the time and continues to inspire readers.

In New York, Allen Ginsberg, William S. Burroughs, and others who formed the core of a movement that Kerouac named “The Beat Generation.” Kerouac became a symbol of American restlessness and the promise of the open road. His series of autobiographical novels, known as the Legend of Duluoz, is one of the major literary achievements of the past century. Kerouac shaped a unique literary consciousness that has influenced readers, writers, musicians, and artists for more than fifty years. He died in St. Petersburg, Florida, in 1969, and is buried in Edson Cemetery in Lowell.

Kerouac’s grave site

Once at the cemetery take the last entrance by the white gatekeeper’s house just before the Gulf Station.

After you’ve entered go left until you reach Seventh, then up 2 blocks to Lincoln.

You’ll find the marker close to the center of section 94, in front of the bush.

Kerouac tours

LCK members give walking or bus or car caravan tours of Kerouac sites for a donation fee, depending on the tour. Master tour leader Roger Brunelle gives the most in-depth group tours in bilingual French and English for $10 per person. Other leaders are possible for your group, if Roger is unavailable. Contact LCK at tours@lowellcelebrateskerouac.org for arranging a tour or for more information.